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(May 12, 2017) – A manhole that became clogged with debris in a residential area led to a sewage overflow this morning on SE 162nd south of Foster Road.

Crews cleared the blockage and restored service to the area, estimating that about 1,750 gallons spilled onto the street and to nearby Clatsop Creek which feeds into Kelley Creek. Those small creeks lead to Johnson Creek.

As a precaution, people should avoid contact with Clatsop Creek downstream of SE 162nd Avenue, Kelley Creek downstream of Clatsop Creek and Johnson Creek downstream of Kelley Creek for about 48 hours because of the possibility of bacteria in the water.

Sewage overflows are preventable. Pipes that become blocked with grease, tree roots, and debris are the most common cause of sewage overflows. Environmental Services advises the public not to flush anything other than waste and toilet paper, and to not put anything down storm drains, which are intended for rainfall only.

This sewage overflow is not related to the City of Portland's combined sewer overflow control system which manages excess stormwater and sewage during exceptionally heavy rains.

The Bureau of Environmental Services provides city residents with programs to protect water quality and public health, including wastewater collection and treatment, sewer construction and maintenance, stormwater management, and stream and watershed restoration.